NEW YORK, NY- Valentine’s Day 2025 was an evening to remember, as I had the pleasure of attending Toro y Moi’s exhilarating performance at New York City’s Terminal 5. The night was elevated by the exceptional support from Panda Bear and Nourished by Time, creating a dynamic musical journey that kept the audience dancing from start to finish.
This concert marked my fourth experience seeing Toro y Moi live, and once again, Chaz Bear—the mastermind behind the moniker—delivered an unforgettable show. His charismatic presence and infectious smile resonated throughout the venue, fostering a palpable connection with the crowd. As the synth-pop and chillwave melodies enveloped us, it was impossible not to be swept up in the positive energy permeating the space.
The setlist was a thoughtfully curated journey through Toro y Moi’s extensive discography, featuring unexpected gems dating back to 2010. This tour primarily showcased his latest album, “Hole Erth,” released in September 2024. Despite the album’s exploration of alt-rock and emo-rap influences, Chaz masterfully integrated its standout tracks—such as “Madonna” featuring Don Toliver—alongside fan favorites like “Laws of the Universe” and “Ordinary Pleasure.” The latter transformed Terminal 5 into a full-fledged dance party, uniting fans in a collective groove.
“Hole Erth” represents a bold evolution in Toro y Moi’s sound, blending elements of hip-hop, pop-punk, and emo-rap. The album features an array of collaborations, including Benjamin Gibbard on “Hollywood,” Kevin Abstract and Lev on “Heaven,” and Glaive on “Starlink.” This diverse lineup of guest artists adds depth and variety to the project, reflecting Chaz’s willingness to experiment and push genre boundaries. As noted by Paste Magazine, “Chaz Bear’s eighth studio album sounds more like a fresh, new reinvention of millennial treasures than it does a time capsule.”
Critical reception of “Hole Erth” has been mixed. Pitchfork critiqued the album for its attempts to emulate contemporary sounds, suggesting it “struggles to sound like anything but an imitation.” Conversely, other reviewers have praised the album’s innovative fusion of genres and its reflection of Chaz’s artistic growth. This divergence in opinions underscores the album’s complexity and Toro y Moi’s commitment to artistic exploration.
Looking ahead, Toro y Moi has an exciting year planned. The “Hole Erth” tour continues with dates across North America and Europe. Upcoming shows include performances in Nashville, TN, at Marathon Music Works on February 20, 2025, and in Atlanta, GA, at the Tabernacle on February 21, 2025. The tour will also make stops in London at The Roundhouse on March 5, 2025, and in Paris at Elysee Montmartre on March 6, 2025. Fans can anticipate a vibrant live experience, as Chaz continues to showcase his latest work alongside beloved classics.
In addition to the tour, there are whispers of new collaborations on the horizon. While no official announcements have been made, Chaz’s history of genre-blending projects and partnerships suggests that fans have much to look forward to in the coming months. His ability to seamlessly integrate diverse musical styles has solidified his reputation as a dynamic and innovative artist.
Reflecting on the Valentine’s Day performance, it’s evident that Toro y Moi’s evolution continues to captivate audiences. Chaz Bear’s fearless experimentation and genre-defying artistry make his live shows an exhilarating experience. As he brings the “Hole Erth” tour to cities worldwide, fans new and old are in for a treat. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this can’t-miss act as he graces a stage near you.
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LIVE CLIPS
Toro y Moi Live at Terminal 5: A Genre-Blending Performance That Had NYC Dancing All Night
